Eat Like a Local on Florida's Space Coast

Florida’s Space Coast welcomes thousands of visitors each and every year. They flock from all over the state, the country and the world to lay on the beautiful coastline, discover American space exploration or board a cruise ship out of Port Canaveral.

If you’re planning a trip to Florida’s Space Coast, there is definitely one thing you’re not going to want to miss out on: eating great food. And luckily, great food is something we have plenty of. But if you really want to taste the best that Florida’s Space Coast has to offer, you have to follow the locals, they’ll lead you right to the best hole-in-the-wall, a charming coffee shop or a delicious lunch spot.

Local Favorites for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Dessert

We start our list with the most important meal of the day, at a local café in Cocoa Village. Located about 10 minutes from Cocoa Beach, Ossorio Bakery & Café is a favorite among Space Coast locals. It’s a great place to grab a coffee, a freshly-baked pastry or even grab light fare like salads and sandwiches. The peaceful atmosphere makes Ossorio the perfect place sip your coffee and read or to grab breakfast and go.

For lunch, check out Squid Lips Overwater Grill in Cocoa Beach for quality food with a beautiful view. No matter what type of food you’re in the mood for, Squid Lips has it all from fresh seafood, to burgers and delicious steaks. Here, you can have a laid-back lunch inside, on their brand-new deck overlooking the river. Nothing beats being served a delicious lunch with a waterfront view.

For dinner, head to Island Dockside Grill, an all-new, friendly local spot in Merritt Island. Island Dockside Grill boasts tasty food and great drinks all at affordable prices – and with stunning views of the Harbortown Marina. While you’re visiting, you can relax and hang out with the welcoming locals on their covered deck and dining area.

For a cold treat as the day winds down, try out The Fat Donkey in Cocoa Beach. This small ice cream and dessert shop is just a couple blocks from the beach and has a long menu of ice cream flavors. From Butterscotch Bomb and Calypso Crunch to Mai Kai and Coconut Pineapple, there is a delicious ice cream for everyone. You can even try a Zonkey – soft serve ice cream layered with sorbet or Italian ice, or a Churro ice cream sandwich – a favorite among locals.

The spots mentioned are just a few of the favorites among Space Coast locals. Click here to find out more local favorites on Florida’s Space Coast, including places in Titusville, Port Canaveral and Melbourne & The Beaches.